Bridge Dispute Becomes Part Of Congressional Primary Race

EL PASO, Texas (AP) — Congressman Silvestre Reyes is warning that as many as 5,000 El Paso families could be displaced if a new international bridge is built.

Reyes told a meeting Wednesday called by the Ysleta school district superintendent that he's opposing the project because it isn't needed and there aren't enough customs workers to staff the bridge if it's built.

The project has become a hot button in the primary election campaign as the El Paso Democrat seeks a ninth term in Congress.

Opponent Beto O'Rourke told the El Paso Times the bridge is needed to protect and boost international trade. He's accusing Reyes of using scare tactics on people who live in the neighborhood near the Texas-Mexico border.